Hon. Simon Mulongo Highlights Labour Sector Priorities During Parliamentary Vetting

Hon. Simon Mulongo, the Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Employment and Industrial Relations, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Uganda’s labour sector through reforms aimed at protecting workers, expanding employment opportunities, and improving industrial relations.

Speaking after appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments chaired by the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Mulongo described the engagement as productive and timely, noting that discussions centered on critical issues affecting Uganda’s workforce and labour market.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the Minister to outline key priorities under his docket, including labour externalization, worker protection, skills development, employment creation, and governance reforms within the labour sector.

Hon. Mulongo emphasized the importance of labour externalization as a strategic avenue for addressing unemployment, particularly among the youth. He noted that the government continues to strengthen mechanisms aimed at ensuring Ugandans seeking employment opportunities abroad are protected from exploitation and unfair labour practices.

“Labour migration continues to provide opportunities for many Ugandans seeking better livelihoods. However, government remains committed to ensuring that workers are protected through stronger regulations, better monitoring systems, and collaboration with licensed labour recruitment agencies,” he noted.

The Minister further highlighted the need to strengthen worker protection frameworks within the country, stressing that decent work conditions, fair wages, occupational safety, and respect for workers’ rights remain central to government policy.

He explained that the Ministry is focusing on improving compliance with labour laws while also enhancing dialogue between employers, employees, and government institutions to promote industrial harmony.

On skills development, Hon. Mulongo underscored the importance of equipping Ugandans with market-driven skills that match the demands of the modern labour market. He noted that vocational training, technical education, and specialized skills programs remain essential in addressing unemployment and increasing productivity.

According to the Minister, government is working closely with various stakeholders to expand skilling opportunities for young people and support initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and innovation.

The discussions also touched on employment creation strategies, with Hon. Mulongo reiterating the need for stronger collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and development partners in generating sustainable jobs for Ugandans.

He acknowledged the challenges posed by unemployment but expressed optimism that ongoing government interventions, investments in infrastructure, industrialization, and skills enhancement programs will contribute significantly to improving employment outcomes.

Additionally, the Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening governance and accountability within the labour sector. He noted that effective regulation, transparency, and institutional coordination are necessary in addressing emerging labour challenges and ensuring efficient service delivery.

Hon. Mulongo commended the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments for its insightful engagement and dedication to advancing policies that support decent work and sustainable economic growth.

“I appreciate the Committee’s thoughtful engagement and commitment to advancing policies that promote decent work and sustainable employment outcomes for Ugandans,” he said.

The engagement reflects government’s broader commitment to transforming Uganda’s labour sector into a more inclusive, productive, and worker-centered system capable of supporting national development goals.

As Uganda continues to navigate a rapidly evolving labour market, stakeholders say sustained investment in skills development, worker protection, and employment generation will be critical in improving livelihoods and fostering socio-economic transformation across the country.